A few weeks ago, I spent some time puttering* around the studio, putting fabrics together to see what would happen (inspired by some of the improvisational piecing going on over at daintytime). I like the idea of taking non-square pieces and seeing how they can go together without any real plan or expectations. It’s so different from how I do most everything else.
Curves are sorta fun for me. I know that’s not how most people feel about sewing curves (if it makes you feel any better, I also enjoy knitting cables and lace, but really don’t like stockinette stitch at all–just more proof that I’m a raging fiber geek). There’s a subtle challenge with curves, but one that if you can chill out and focus becomes soothing and sorta Zen-like. I need more Zen-like places in my life. Don’t we all?
I feel the same way about free-motion stitching. It takes a goodly amount of concentration to really get into the FMQ groove, and I have found myself working on a project, thinking I’ve only been sewing for a few minutes, maybe 30 at most, and suddenly three hours have gone by. Seriously. It was glorious. I felt relaxed and happy and satisfied with a job well done. Good stuff.
Improvisational piecing can be like that, too. No real planning, just mixing up some shapes and following their lead. I loved seeing what happened when I reversed the shapes or how curvy I could get my curves, depending on the angle of the edges.
It’s so easy to see cool, inspiring things online and think, “Wish I could do that.” I say: Carpe Stitchum! Who says you can’t? The sewing police? Because those people aren’t elected, they’re appointed, and self-appointed at that. They can’t actually enforce those tickets they hand out.
Get out there, chickens! Get sewing!
*If you needed more motivation to go out and get wild with your sewing, it had been so long since I’d given myself permission to putter that I actually had to do a Google search for synonyms of “fiddle around” because I had forgotten the word “putter.” How’s that for sad? Never forget to give yourself chances to play–sewing is supposed to be your happy place!
The mod mood quilt is a technique I’m itching to experiment with – but on a grand scale. Love!
Looking at this fanciful piece reminds me that I really need to practice free motion quilting. Your’s looks great. Mine looks… well not so great. Maybe I need a class? better tools? I think this may have to be my challenge for next week. Thanks for the inspiration.
I agree – improv is all about flow and enjoying the moment. Carpe Stichum! Great job.